PLAY4ALL is an exploration of how simple moments of
play can support learning by engaging us in the present moment and encouraging
our natural curiosity. We believe play can serve as a catalyst for
forging positive connections between individuals and the environment, resulting
in a more open, friendly and playful public realm. The installations will run from September 12-18, with a Play Day with all the installations on September 25th.
As architects of schools and educational spaces, issues of equity in learning are central to our design thinking. We challenge preconceptions of what a "typical" learning environment should look like. In recent years, our understanding of play has undergone a radical shift. Play used to be considered a distraction from "real” learning. Today, data is mounting in support of play as a fundamental component of cognitive development. Simply put, playing = learning. The more we learn about play, the more we believe that access to a diversity of quality play experiences is fundamental to support equity in learning.
As architects of schools and educational spaces, issues of equity in learning are central to our design thinking. We challenge preconceptions of what a "typical" learning environment should look like. In recent years, our understanding of play has undergone a radical shift. Play used to be considered a distraction from "real” learning. Today, data is mounting in support of play as a fundamental component of cognitive development. Simply put, playing = learning. The more we learn about play, the more we believe that access to a diversity of quality play experiences is fundamental to support equity in learning.
DESIGN FOR EQUITY
In thinking about how to lower barriers to play, we devised four PLAY4ALL principles:
In thinking about how to lower barriers to play, we devised four PLAY4ALL principles:
- INCREASE ACCESS. Identify ways to integrate play into everyday life. We challenge the notion that play should occur within the time constraints of recess and the spatial definition of a playground.
- DECREASE COST. Explore how to recycle/repurpose everyday materials in a playful and elegant way.
- DIVERSIFY MODALITIES. Frequently, play is synonymous with large-motor activities (climbing, jumping, sliding) and visually-oriented games. What about playing with sound or texture? How about a game in which all players have limited mobility or use a prosthetic tool?
- OPEN-ENDED SIMPLICITY. No instructions, no right or wrong way to play. Outcomes are unpredictable so play can occur without pretense or competition.